Good public transport spurs economic growth; improves living standards: PM

KUALA LUMPUR, 7 July : Over 500,000 people in the Klang Valley will benefit from the Sungai Buloh-Kajang Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) line once its second phase begins operations later this month, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said today.

He pointed out that a good public transport system could help propel Malaysia’s economic growth, aside from improving the people’s quality of life.

“This month will mark a historic milestone in our public transport system with the completion of the Sungai Buloh-Kajang Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) route.

“This route will serve over 500,000 passengers – a remarkable achievement for Prasarana Malaysia Bhd in efforts to provide a world class public transport system.

“All projects involving public transport are close to my heart, because I believe only a good public transport system can help generate the country’s economic growth (and), primarily, improve the quality of the people’s life,” he said in his blog today.

The second phase of the route will complete the 51km Sungai Buloh-Kajang MRT line following the first phase of the Sungai Buloh-Semantan route, which has 12 stations and started operations on Dec 16.

The prime minister said that with an integrated public transport network, more Malaysians now have the opportunity to improve their economic status and standard of living.

“In the past, the main problem was an unconnected public transport system. Now, the government strives to connect and expand further (so) that commuters can travel to their workplace faster and at a much lower cost.

“Time is gold. Indeed, more leisure time and transport cost savings will enhance the quality of the people’s lives. Such investments prove that the welfare of the people continues to be given priority in the formulation of government policies today,” Najib added.